AJ Dybantsa leads Wizards to victory over Jazz in NBA Summer League debut
AJ Dybantsa, the top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, made a notable debut in the NBA Summer League on Thursday night, leading the Washington Wizards to a 92-88 victory over the Utah Jazz. Dybantsa, who was the No. 1 overall pick, scored a game-high 27 points. His performance included an up-and-under layup, a bounce pass for an assist, and a highlight-reel dunk that drew a strong reaction from fans and teammates.
The matchup was highly anticipated, featuring a direct contest between Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson, the No. 2 overall pick selected by the Jazz. Peterson also delivered a strong performance, contributing 24 points for his team. This game marked a continuation of their rivalry, as they had previously faced each other in high school and college.
Dybantsa acknowledged the competitive history with Peterson in a postgame interview, stating, “Every time I play him, it’s a great setting.” He noted that Peterson had previously gotten the better of him three times—twice in high school and once in college—and expressed satisfaction in securing a win this time. Peterson, for his part, addressed the motivation of playing against the player drafted ahead of him, telling reporters, “I look forward to every game we play. Obviously, this one was a bigger one, so yeah, I was looking forward to it.”
Dybantsa’s Impact and Game Details
Dybantsa’s debut showcased his versatility, as he also recorded seven rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block. Despite not shooting with high efficiency, making 7 of 18 attempts from the field, his ability to draw fouls was evident. He repeatedly got to the free-throw line, drawing eight shooting fouls, and even earned a free-throw attempt after sinking a fadeaway jumper while being fouled by Peterson.
Wizards summer-league coach T.J. Sorrentine praised Dybantsa’s talent, remarking, “He didn’t shoot it great, but he gets to the free-throw line, gets to his spots. You just see the talent. He’s just scratching the surface.” Dybantsa himself commented on his game being suited for the NBA, highlighting his ability to get into transition and make plays for teammates. He also noted the fast tempo of the professional game, which he believes will help him get into shape.
Peterson’s stat line included three assists and eight turnovers, and he was whistled for nine personal fouls, the maximum allowed in summer league before a player fouls out. He made 6 of 18 shots from the field. Peterson indicated that he felt more comfortable with his role and utilization by the Jazz compared to his collegiate experience at Kansas.
Team and Fan Reactions
The game, held at UNLV’s Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, drew significant attention, with many Washington Wizards team officials and players in attendance. This group included Monumental Sports & Entertainment principal owner Ted Leonsis, Wizards general manager Will Dawkins, coach Brian Keefe, center Alex Sarr, wing Bilal Coulibaly, and veteran wing Khris Middleton. Former Wizards No. 1 pick John Wall also watched from the sidelines.
Dybantsa’s father, Ace Dybantsa, expressed immense pride following his son’s debut, calling it a “dream come true.” He shared that he will move to Washington to support his son during his initial years in the league. The elder Dybantsa also recounted the moment he learned his son would be the No. 1 pick, having received a call from Washington president Michael Winger before the official announcement.
The Jazz had already played three games in the Salt Lake City Summer League prior to this matchup, winning all of them. Peterson had performed well in those games, averaging 26.5 points, seven assists, and five turnovers in the first two matchups, with strong shooting percentages. Despite Dybantsa being the presumptive No. 1 pick, Peterson also had supporters among front-office executives and scouts.
While Dybantsa experienced leg soreness and left the game with 1:22 remaining, he stated he would be back. General Manager Dawkins indicated that Dybantsa is anticipated to play in Sunday’s exhibition, with future game participation to be evaluated on a game-by-game basis.
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Source: bleacherreport.com
